As I settled into my favorite armchair with a steaming cup of tea, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of anticipation. “The Last Devil to Die” by Richard Osman had been sitting on my nightstand for weeks, patiently waiting for me to dive in. I’d been a fan of the Thursday Murder Club series since the first book, and this fourth installment promised to be just as delightful.
My journey with these books began when a close friend, knowing my love for both mysteries and stories about unlikely friendships, recommended them to me. From the moment I met Elizabeth, Joyce, Ibrahim, and Ron in the first book, I was hooked. There’s something incredibly comforting about following these septuagenarian sleuths as they solve crimes and navigate the complexities of aging.
As I delved into “The Last Devil to Die,” I was immediately drawn back into the world of Coopers Chase retirement village. Osman’s writing has a way of making you feel like you’re catching up with old friends, and this book was no exception. The story revolves around the murder of Kuldesh Sharma, an antiques dealer and friend of our intrepid investigators, along with the mysterious disappearance of a package containing heroin. From the get-go, I was intrigued by how Osman would weave together these seemingly disparate threads.
One of the things I’ve always appreciated about this series is Osman’s ability to balance humor with more serious themes, and this book truly excels in that regard. The witty banter between the characters had me chuckling out loud more than once, but it was the poignant moments that really stuck with me. In particular, the portrayal of Elizabeth’s husband Stephen’s struggle with dementia was handled with such sensitivity and realism that it brought tears to my eyes.
I found myself especially drawn to Joyce’s character in this installment. Her increased role in the investigations added a fresh perspective, and her diary entries continue to be a highlight. There’s something so endearing about her matter-of-fact observations and unexpected insights. One entry that particularly tickled me was when she casually mentioned learning how to pick locks from YouTube tutorials. It’s these little details that make the characters feel so real and relatable.
However, I did find that at times the plot felt a bit convoluted. The interweaving of art forgery, online scams, and drug trafficking, while ambitious, occasionally left me feeling a bit lost. I had to flip back a few times to keep track of all the players involved. That being said, the way Osman brings it all together in the end is quite satisfying.
One of the strongest aspects of the book, in my opinion, is Osman’s writing style. His prose is crisp and engaging, with a perfect balance of description and dialogue. He has a knack for capturing the essence of each character’s voice, making their interactions feel authentic and natural. I particularly enjoyed the multiple narrative perspectives, which added depth to the story and allowed for some clever reveals.
As I turned the final page, I found myself reflecting on the themes of friendship, aging, and resilience that run throughout the book. It’s rare to find a mystery novel that not only entertains but also prompts deeper contemplation about life and relationships. “The Last Devil to Die” reminded me of the importance of community and the power of friendship, especially as we grow older.
There were several moments in the book that resonated with me on a personal level. The way the characters rally around Elizabeth as she copes with Stephen’s declining health reminded me of how my own friends supported me when my mother was ill. It’s a beautiful portrayal of the strength we can draw from our chosen family.
I also found myself unexpectedly moved by a scene where Ibrahim, still dealing with the aftermath of a mugging from a previous book, finds the courage to venture out alone. It’s a small moment, but it speaks volumes about overcoming fear and reclaiming one’s independence. These are the kinds of nuanced character developments that keep me coming back to this series.
Without a doubt, I’ll be recommending “The Last Devil to Die” to friends and family. It’s the perfect book for anyone who enjoys a cozy mystery with heart. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the series or new to the Thursday Murder Club, there’s something here for everyone. The blend of humor, mystery, and poignant reflection on aging makes for a truly enjoyable read.
In conclusion, while “The Last Devil to Die” may not be perfect, it’s a worthy addition to the Thursday Murder Club series. Richard Osman has once again crafted a story that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking. As I closed the book, I found myself already looking forward to the next adventure with these delightful characters. And who knows? Maybe it’s time I start my own amateur sleuthing club. After all, if Joyce can learn lock-picking from YouTube, what’s stopping me?